Financial Aid Guide 2015-16

2015-16

Stark State College Financial Aid Guide

Information essential to your college success. starkstate.edu

Welcome You’re on your way to joining the Stark State College family.

Read this entire booklet to get an overview of the financial process and determine if you have completed all necessary steps for starting classes in the coming semester.

330-494-6170 | 1-800-797-8275 | www.starkstate.edu

Table of contents Financial Aid Office........................................................................ 1

Phone counseling ................................................................. 1

Appointments ...................................................................... 1

General eligibility requirements .......................................... 2 Applying for financial aid .............................................................. 4

Priority dates ........................................................................ 4

FAFSA follow-up ................................................................... 5

Understanding your award package .................................... 5

Student loan application.......................................................6 Cost/disbursement ....................................................................... 6

Bursar/Business Office ......................................................... 8 Types of financial aid ..................................................................... 9

Federal programs ................................................................. 9

State programs ................................................................... 10

Social service programs ..................................................... 11

Scholarships ....................................................................... 11 Military Services .......................................................................... 12

Ohio GI Promise ................................................................. 13

Receiving credit for military service .................................. 13

Other resources ................................................................. 13 Other information to know.......................................................... 14

Class attendance ................................................................ 14

Student confidentiality ...................................................... 14

Refund policy ..................................................................... 15 Standards of Academic Progress ................................................ 16 Student rights/responsibilities .................................................... 18 Tax credits and deductions ......................................................... 20 Frequently asked questions ........................................................ 21 Directory ..................................................................................... 25

Stark State College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs and activities.

For inquiries regarding the College’s non-discrimination policies (Section 504, Title IX and Title VI) contact J.P. Cooney at 330-494-6170, Ext. 4401 or Room S311a.

––––––––––– The Financial Aid Office at Stark State College The Financial Aid Office is committed to helping find ways to make a college education affordable for Stark State students and their families. We offer a variety of services and programs designed to help meet your educational expenses. Our staff is dedicated to making sure you receive your aid in a timely and efficient manner.

The key to financing your education is to start planning early. The more you know about how financial aid works, the better prepared you will be to pay for college.

For the most up-to-date financial aid information, visit the Stark State financial aid webpage at www.starkstate.edu/finaid.

If you have any questions about the financial aid process, contact the Financial Aid Office at 330-494-6170. Hours are Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed at 3 p.m. on Friday during the summer).

Phone counseling

General information can be obtained by phone; to ensure confidentiality, however, dollar amounts cannot be discussed. Phone counseling is available during office hours. Callers with detailed questions or complicated situations may be asked to make an appointment. During the busy months of July, August and September, the Financial Aid Office will assist callers as quickly as possible.

Appointments

Appointments are offered to assist with in-depth questions or concerns.

Appointments are available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Appointments made on Fridays during the summer are available from 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.) Same-day appointments will be accommodated as schedules permit and cannot be guaranteed. To schedule an appointment, call the Financial Aid Office at 330-494-6170.

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General eligibility requirements Eligibility for most financial aid programs is based on demonstrated financial need of the student and/or the student’s family and on registered credit hours.

To be eligible for federal and state financial aid programs, a student must be a citizen, national or permanent resident of the United States.

Certain persons in the process of becoming citizens or permanent residents also may be eligible.

To be eligible for federal financial aid programs (Pell, FSEOG, Federal Work Study, Federal Direct Loan, Federal PLUS), you must also • be accepted by the college for admission as a regular student and demonstrate the ability to benefit from the selected program of study. Students enrolled in high school, post-secondary option students and early admit students are not eligible for aid.

• transfer students must provide official college transcripts from every prior institution in which you were enrolled.

• show intent on the admission application to obtain an associate degree for transfer to another college, an associate degree for the job market or a certificate.

• be enrolled in a financial aid-eligible, Ohio Board of Regents (OBR) approved degree or certificate program.

• be enrolled in courses that provide credit toward a financial aid-eligible degree or certificate program. Courses taken as audit are not eligible.

• meet the enrollment and attendance requirements for each program.

• demonstrate the ability to benefit from the education offered. You must provide an official transcript to the Office of the Registrar verifying you have earned a high school diploma or GED. • comply with requirements concerning Selective Service registration. For information regarding Selective Service, or to register, visit www.sss.gov.

• comply with requirements concerning submission of a Statement of Educational Purpose. This is included on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

• certify that you are not in default on any federal loan.

• certify you do not owe a refund to any federal aid program, including grant overpayments resulting from withdrawing from class(es).

• maintain satisfactory academic progress as set forth in the Stark State College Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy.

• accumulate no more than 30 hours of developmental courses.

For Ohio programs (Ohio National Guard Tuition Assistance and War Orphans Scholarship), you must also be a resident of Ohio (according to Ohio law) for 12 consecutive months and be enrolled in an associate degree program. Students pursuing a one-year certificate are not eligible.

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— Important — Every student needs to be aware of Stark State’s policies. Important policies are summarized here. Read these policies in their entirety on mystarkstate.

• Standards of Academic Progress (SAP) Policy– All students are required to adhere to the SAP policy by maintaining the minimum credit hours completion and GPA standards while making timely progress toward your educational goal. More specific details on the Standards of Academic Progress Policy can be found at www.starkstate.edu/sap or on pages 16-18 of this guide.

• Repeat Coursework Policy– Students may receive financial aid for repeating courses. However, if retaking a previously passed course, financial aid can only be used for one repeat of that course. Any course that is repeated will be used in the calculation of a student’s Satisfactory Academic Progress status.

• Title IV Refund Policy– This policy regulates what happens to federal financial aid if you withdraw or cease attendance in your scheduled classes.

• Class Attendance Policy– Attendance will be taken in all classes to document that students who are eligible for federal financial aid attend class. Students who receive federal financial aid and do not attend their classes risk having their financial aid cancelled or reduced.

• Developmental Classes– A student is limited to 30 attempted developmental credit hours while receiving federal financial aid. Federal financial aid programs will not cover any developmental courses taken after reaching the maximum 30 hours. These courses include, but are not limited to MTH091, MTH092, MTH093, MTH094, MTH100, MTH101, MTH103, MTH123, ENG010, ENG011, ENG100, ENG101, ENG103, ENG105, OAD/AOT100, OAD/AOT101, IDS101, IDS102, CAL101, CAL102, CAL105 and ITD100.

• Freeze Date– The amount of your financial aid award is determined by your enrollment at the end of the sixth day of the semester. This is known as the “freeze date.” If you add or drop classes before the freeze date, your aid will be adjusted based on the number of credit hours in which you are enrolled. If you add or drop classes after the freeze date in any given semester, your aid will not be adjusted for that term, but you could be in violation of the Standards of Academic Progress policy.

If you violate the SAP Policy, Title IV Refund Policy or Class Attendance Policy, you may be subject to sanctions that may include an immediate return of some or all of the funds awarded to you and/or a suspension of your eligibility for future financial aid funding.

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––––––––––– Applying for financial aid All students should complete the 2015-2016 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) via www.fafsa.gov. The Stark State College school code is 011141.

You will need a PIN to complete the FAFSA online. Apply for your PIN at www.pin.ed.gov. Dependent students will need a parent to sign the FAFSA with a PIN; parent will need to apply for a separate PIN. You also will need your federal tax return to complete the FAFSA. PIN REPLACEMENT EFFECTIVE MAY 10, 2015: The FSA ID, consisting of a username and password, will replace the PIN beginning May 10, 2015 for all students, parents, and borrowers accessing any system tied to Federal Student Aid. This will require you to enter less information, provide you with more secure access, and serve as the new version of your final signature on the FAFSA. If you had never previously requested a PIN number, you will proceed with a new user request.

If you had a prior PIN number, you will be asked for your PIN number and your account will be linked to your new FSA ID as long as your PIN information matches your other information.

Students and parents will not be able to correct or sign the FAFSA without the FSA ID effective May 10, 2015.

Priority dates

Summer Fall Spring session session session

FAFSA filing March 1 May 1 Oct 1 Required documentation April 1 June 1 Nov 1 Loan request May 1 July 1 Dec 1 Applications received after these dates will be considered for aid, but students may not have access to funds until after the start of the semester. That means you should be prepared to use your own funds to pay for a portion of your tuition and all of your books before the semester’s payment deadline.

TIP: File your FAFSA when you file your taxes.

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FAFSA follow-up

Once your FAFSA has been processed, you will receive a confirmation from the U.S. Department of Education central processing system.

After central processing, Stark State receives an electronic copy of your FAFSA usually within 7-10 days. If you are a new student at Stark State, you will receive a postcard notifying you of any additional required documentation. If you are a returning student, you will receive an email in your Stark State email account notifying you of any additional required documentation. If you are asked to submit additional documentation, do so as soon as possible. Your financial aid cannot be processed without the requested documentation.

After all your documentation has been reviewed you will receive notification that your financial aid award package has been created and is ready for your review.

New students will receive this notification by postcard and returning students will receive this notification by email.

Understanding your award package

• Note that your initial award is based on enrollment as a full-time student for the academic year. You do not have to be a full-time student to qualify for financial aid. Full-time is defined as being registered for 12 or more credit hours in a semester. The academic year is made up of a 16-week fall semester and a 16-week spring semester.

• Initial award amounts represent your funds for a fall/spring academic year.

If you enroll in classes for the summer, your award will automatically be reallocated to include all three semesters.

• Adjustments to your Pell grant will be made based on your level of enrollment, depending upon whether you are enrolled full-time (12 credits or more), three-quarter time (9-11 credit hours), half-time (6-8 credit hours) or less than half-time (1-5 credit hours).

• Your student loan will be calculated based on your level of enrollment (full-time enrollment is 12 credits or more, part-time enrollment is 6-11 credit hours). You must be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours to receive loan funds.

• Transfer students who have received financial aid from another school during the current award year should ask their previous school to cancel all pending financial aid. Once that aid has been cancelled, provide documentation of that cancellation to the Stark State Financial Aid Office. Your aid may be adjusted due to aid received at another school.

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Student loan information and application

• Your award package will not automatically include an offer for a student loan.

If you are interested in a student loan you must submit a Direct Loan Request Form to the Financial Aid Office. This can be printed from the mystarkstate portal by checking under My Stuff>> Apply for Your Loan>> Print Direct Loan Request Form.

• You must be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours to receive loan funds.

• First-time loan borrowers at Stark State also must complete the loan application process. This includes completing a loan entrance counseling session and a Master Promissory Note (MPN). These can be completed at www.studentloans.gov. Loan funds will not be processed until you complete this requirement.

• Federal regulations require first-year, first-time loan borrowers to wait 30 days after the start of their semester before funds can be disbursed to them.

• Beginning summer semester 2015, all Federal Direct Loans will be disbursed in two payments each term. Stark State College requires attendance reporting prior to disbursement of any Title IV funds (grants and loans).

––––––––––– Costs/disbursement Estimated costs for nine months of full-time education at Stark State for 2015-16

Tuition and Fees $3,756.00

Books and Supplies $1,100.00

Transportation* $1,568.00

Personal Expenses* $1,168.00

Living Costs* $1,636.00– $5,170.00 *Item estimate based on information provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Payment of fees with financial aid Financial aid is first applied to your tuition account after your attendance is verified in all classes. Any excess funds can be disbursed to you as a refund. If your financial aid funds do not cover your entire account balance, payment arrangements for the remaining balance need to be made with the Business Office before the payment deadline each semester.

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Distribution of refunds In an effort to support student success, the completion of courses each semester and to reduce Stark State College’s Federal Student Loan default rate, student loans will be disbursed in two payments during each term beginning summer semester 2015.

Disbursements will occur: Fall/Spring: • 4th week of classes– First disbursement • 9th week of classes– Second disbursement *If you are taking a second 8-week course, attendance will be verified prior to receiving your second disbursement.

Summer: • 3rd week of classes– First disbursement • 6th week of classes– Second disbursement *If you are taking a second 5-week course, attendance will be verified prior to receiving your second disbursement.

Once the loan funds are disbursed to your student account, they will be used to pay off any outstanding charges. If there are excess loan funds after your student account is paid off, you will be refunded the excess amount by the Business Office.

If the first disbursement of your loan funds (combined with other applicable financial aid or out of pocket payments) is not enough to cover the full balance of your student account, you will not be issued a refund at that time.

Loan funds will only be disbursed if you are registered for six or more credit hours in courses required for your major and all student requirements are complete at the time of each disbursement. If you drop below six credit hours before either disbursement of your loan is made, it will not be disbursed to you.

What this means to you as a student: Midterm grades are now mandatory as of summer semester 2015 and will be entered for every class in which you are enrolled. You will be notified after all midterm grades have been posted. If you are earning an “F” and failing to attend after the initial never attend deadline, you will be administratively withdrawn from that course. The second disbursement will be based on midterm grades and continued attendance in registered classes.

Arrival of your refund depends on the refund preference you selected when you activated your Stark State Plus Card. Visit www.starkstatepluscard.com if you wish to change your refund preference or to view account activity.

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Stark State Plus Card You will be sent a Stark State Plus Card after you enroll in classes. Activate your card as soon as you receive it; it’s the only way to receive your refund from Stark State College. Go to www.starkstatepluscard.com to select a refund preference from the following options • have your funds deposited into your current bank account– the money will be available to you two to three days after the College releases the funds — OR — • choose a Higher One debit/checking account– the money will be available to you within 24 hours after the College releases the funds — OR — • select a paper check option

Bursar/Business Office

The Financial Aid Office works closely with the Bursar’s Office to coordinate student billing and balances due. Refunds and disbursements are handled by the Bursar’s Office based on your enrollment.

Stark State College Student Installment Plan (SIPP) The Student Installment Payment Plan (SIPP) is printed on your schedule/ receipt each semester. This program offers you the option of paying your tuition in installments. A fee of $25 is assessed; however, no interest is charged.

Visit www.starkstate.edu/sipp for details.

Revisions and cancellations The College reserves the right to review, revise or cancel financial awards at any time due to • changes in your financial, residential or academic status.

• your failure to comply with the policies, procedures or laws pertaining to these programs.

• the availability of federal, state and institutional funds for each program.

• changes in College policy. The College is not obligated to satisfy the total financial need of a student.

Using financial aid to buy books You may use your financial aid to purchase books at the Stark State College Store. To do so, your funds must be available and authorized for use in the bookstore. Authorization is made or revoked by you when completing the Title IV Authorization Form. Check mystarkstate for your account balance. You must show your student ID and your schedule to buy books. If using financial aid, you will also need to show a photo ID.

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The Stark State College Store has two locations on main campus. The main store is located in the Student Center, Room S105. The Textbook Center is open during the first 4-6 weeks of each semester and is located in the G Building, Room G105.

College Store hours are Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (hours vary between semesters and during summer session).

The College Store carries new and used textbooks and offers textbook rentals and e-books, when applicable. The College Store website lets you search for and price your required texts. You also have the option to order books online and have them delivered to your home, but financial aid cannot be used for online purchases.

The College Store also offers clothing, insignia items, academic supplies and various other supplies necessary for certain programs of study. You can also buy laptops, academically priced Microsoft and Adobe software, as well as gas cards, SARTA bus passes, fax services and laminating.

––––––––––– Types of financial aid available to students Federal programs

To apply for these programs you must complete the FAFSA. Federal Pell Grant (PELL) An award of $626 to $5,775 per year, based on financial need. Eligibility is based upon need, enrollment and cost of education.

Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) Allocation of funds is at the discretion of Stark State. Awards are based on need and application date. Award amounts vary, up to $400 per year. Federal regulations require students to be Pell-eligible to receive FSEOG funds. Funds are limited and are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Federal Work Study Program (FWSP) This financial need-based program provides opportunities for students to be employed at the College to earn money for educational expenses. Students must submit a Federal Work Study Request Form to the Financial Aid Office. An award does not guarantee earnings; students are paid with a bi-weekly paycheck for hours actually worked. Job postings can be found on mystarkstate.

Keep more money in your pocket during and after college.

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Federal Direct Loan Programs A Federal Direct Loan offers freshman students up to $5,500 and sophomores up to $6,500 per year. Students pursuing a one-year certificate will remain at freshman level for borrowing purposes. This is a loan and must be repaid. Interest rates vary annually. If you already have a Direct Loan, borrowing a new loan will not affect the rate or terms of your previous loan(s). You may qualify for a subsidized and/or an unsubsidized Direct Loan up to the amounts listed above.

Direct Subsidized Loans These loans are based on financial need; therefore, some students may not qualify. With a Direct Subsidized Loan, no interest accumulates and repayment is deferred while the student is enrolled in college at least half time (six or more credit hours). Subsidized loan funds are capped at $3,500 for freshman students and $4,500 for sophomore students per year.

Direct Unsubsidized Loans Students who do not qualify for a Direct Subsidized Loan may be eligible to borrow up to the maximum annual amounts in unsubsidized loan funds.

Loan payments can be deferred as long as the student is enrolled at least half- time (6 or more credit hours). Interest begins accruing when the loan is disbursed and can be paid by the borrower while in school and during the grace period to avoid capitalization. Independent students (see definition, page 22) may have the option of borrowing an additional $4,000 in unsubsidized Direct Loan Funds. 

Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (Federal PLUS) The Federal PLUS program is for parents of dependent students. Family income is not taken into consideration; therefore, the program is open to almost any parent who has good credit. The parent can borrow up to the cost of the college education, less aid, at a variable rate of interest (currently not to exceed 9%). Repayment begins 60 days after the final disbursement of the funds. We recommend students first utilize all eligibility for grants and the Federal Direct Loans before receiving a Federal PLUS. Funds are paid in multiple disbursements and given to the parent(s) after tuition and fees have been paid.

State programs Ohio National Guard If you enlist in the National Guard for six years, the National Guard will pay 100% of tuition costs. You must be an Ohio resident enrolled in at least six credit hours at an Ohio college. Contact your local National Guard at 614-336-7053 for more information.

Montgomery GI Bill If you serve in the Army Reserve or the National Guard, you may be eligible to receive education benefits while attending classes. You may also qualify for loan repayment. Contact the local Army Reserve or National Guard Office for more information. The Academic Records/Registrar’s Office certifies enrollment for this program.

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Social service programs Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR) Educational assistance may be available for students with special needs. Call the Canton (330-438-0500) or Akron (330-643-3080) BVR office for more information.

Workforce Initiative Association (WIA) and Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Programs for individuals who recently lost their job or are entering the workforce after an extended period of unemployment. You must complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for grants before being considered for WIA and TAA funding.

For information about WIA and TAA, contact the Employment Source at 330-4339675.

Scholarships President’s Scholars Award Awarded to new, first-time students taking at least 12 hours per semester.

Maximum award $2,500 with $500 awarded each of four semesters and $250 awarded each of two summer sessions. Must attend consecutive semesters/sessions.

Must meet two of the following criteria • High school minimum GPA 3.0 • Top 25% of graduating class • ACT composite 22 or higher or qualifying COMPASS scores of 80/reading, 70/English, 54/math For continued eligibility students must successfully complete a minimum of 12 credit hours during fall and spring semesters. Must successfully complete a minimum of six credit hours during summer semesters. Must maintain a Stark State College GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Choose Ohio First A renewable award of up to $2,000 per year available to U.S. citizens or permanent resident alien students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and medicine majors.

Must also have • High school and college GPA 3.0 or higher • Qualifying ACT 18/reading, 18/English, 22/math or COMPASS test scores of 80/reading, 70/English, 54/math.

Fortisure Foundation Scholarship Renewable scholarship available to students pursuing an associate of applied science or associate of applied business degree in information technology. Annual amount and number of awards will vary. To apply, students must complete the FAFSA and a Fortisure Foundation application available at www.starkstate.edu/scholarships.

Must also meet ONE of the following criteria • High school student with ACT composite 25 or higher • Students with COMPASS scores of 80/writing, 70/math, 90/reading

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Stark State Foundation Scholarships Available to full- or part-time traditional or nontraditional students with a GPA 2.0 or higher. Annual amount and number of awards vary. Students must complete the FAFSA by June 1 to be considered for Foundation scholarships.

These Stark State Foundation scholarships require an additional application and have higher GPA requirements • Graco Engineering Scholarship 3.0 GPA • Stacie Cross Paramedic Scholarship 2.0 GPA • GCADA Automotive Scholarship 3.0 GPA • Roland Kirsch Engineering Scholarship 2.8 GPA • Paul and Susan Feaser Scholarship 3.5 GPA Applications can be found at www.starkstate.edu/scholarships.

College Credit Plus and Early College High School Scholarship Awarded to dual enrollment or Early College students with a minimum GPA 2.5 and enrolled in 12 or more credit hours per semester. Annual amount and number of awards will vary.

Other scholarships are available A complete list of scholarships is available at www.starkstate.edu/scholarships.

Scholarship awards are divided between fall and spring semesters unless otherwise designated by the donor.

––––––––––– Military services Stark State College is privileged to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans.

The College is fully accredited under the laws that provide educational benefits for veterans.

The Military Services department provides comprehensive enrollment and educational services to active duty military members, veterans, and their dependents. These services include admissions, financial aid, career and academic advising support, as well as assistance with applying for VA educational benefits. The College’s certifying official will certify enrollment and assist new and continuing student veterans with the processing of VA forms for educational benefits.

How to apply for veterans’ benefits Submit your application for VA Educational Benefits, VA Form 22-1990, or if you have used your benefits at another college and are transferring to Stark State, you will need to use VA-Form 22-1995 (Request for Change of Program or Place of Training). You can use the VA’s online application tool (VONAPP) or contact Stark State’s certifying official at 330-494-6170, Ext. 4254, for assistance with this process. You will need your DD-214. The VA’s minimum processing time is four to six weeks. Additional information regarding educational benefits is available at www.va.gov.

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Ohio GI Promise

In an effort to assist veterans, service members and their families with reducing the costs associated with obtaining a college degree, the state of Ohio spearheaded an initiative known as the Ohio GI Promise which allows U.S. armed services veterans, their spouses and dependents who choose to attend Ohio colleges and universities to do so at in-state tuition rates.

Receiving credit for military service

Some of your military experience may be applied toward credit for a degree. To receive credit, you must submit transcripts for your branch of the military. Go to https://jst.doded.mil/smart/signIn.do to request your military transcript.

Other veterans’ resources The General Educational Development (GED) Testing Service (GEDTS) maintains all records of GED transcripts obtained by active duty US military personnel tested after October 1, 1985, and by US military personnel and dependents tested overseas after September 1974 under the Defense Activity for Nontraditional Educational Support (DANTES) program. GEDTS also maintains records of GED tests taken at the Veteran’s Medical Centers after October 1, 1989.

To obtain an official copy of the GED transcript, users should complete the GED transcript request form available at http://www.gedtestingservice.com/testers/ gedrequest-a-transcript or contact GED Testing Service, One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 250, Washington, DC 20036; phone 1-800-626-9433 or 202-930-9400, fax 202-659-8875.

DANTES maintains the educational records of the service members who have completed DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSSTs), CLEP examinations, GED, and United States Armed Forces Institute (USAFI) tests. For more information, visit the DANTES website at http://www.dantes.doded.mil.

Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty You can request a copy of your Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty Form (DD-214) at http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/ You may also mail your request to National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records, 9700 Page Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132; call 314- 801-0800 or fax 314- 801-9195.

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––––––––––– Other information to know Adjustments to your schedule could result in adjustments to your financial aid.

Visit the Financial Aid Office before making any schedule changes to determine the effect a schedule change may have on your financial aid eligibility.

Enrollment verifications can be requested through mystarkstate. Also, after the third week of each semester, enrollment information is available from by logging onto your mystarkstate and checking under My Stuff>> National Student Clearinghouse – Student Self Service.

Class attendance

To ensure our commitment to student success, attendance must be taken in all classes, regardless of modality, starting with the first day of the class. Faculty may elect to relate course attendance to the course grading policy. Students will be notified of this through the course syllabus.

A student is considered a non-attendee in any course modality when he or she does not physically attend a class session or does not log in and participate in the course content within the first 14 days of the term for fall and spring (excluding holidays and emergency closings) and within the first seven days of the term (excluding holidays and emergency closings) for accelerated terms, as per the Federal Financial Aid Guidelines. Non-attendees will be dropped from their classes and, if applicable, financial aid will be returned to the federal government.

Attendance will also be documented at the end of each semester to verify the last day attended in each class, and will be submitted in conjunction with final grades to the Academic Records/Registrar’s Office.

Student confidentiality

Financial assistance records In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) (Public Law 93-380 as amended) all information received in connection with applications for admissions and financial aid are held in the strictest confidence. No information will be released regarding students except by written request of the student. Under FERPA, you have the right to inspect your student file. You may review information in your file and receive copies and information upon written request.

Release of information to another party You must complete and sign a consent form before any information will be released to another party. On the consent form, you must indicate which semester(s) you want information released. You must allow 10 days for this processing. Information regarding fees and bookstore charges must be obtained from the Business Office. Your signature on a loan application authorizes Stark State College to release to the lending institution, subsequent holder, the guarantor, U.S. Department of Education, or their agents any requested information pertinent to the student loan(s).

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Title IV refund policy

The Financial Aid Office is required by federal statute to recalculate federal financial aid eligibility for students who completely withdraw, stop attending, or take a medical leave prior to completing 60% of a payment period or term.

Recalculation is based on the percentage of earned aid using the following Federal Return of Title IV funds formula: Percentage of payment period or term completed (the number of days completed up to the withdrawal date) divided by the total days in the payment period or term (any break of five days or more is not counted as part of the term). This percentage of completed days is equal to the percentage of earned aid.

Title IV refund process Funds are returned to the appropriate federal program based on the percentage of unearned aid. If you earned less aid than was disbursed, the institution would be required to return a portion of the funds and you would be required to return a portion of the funds within 45 days. Keep in mind that when Title IV funds are returned, you may owe a balance to the institution.

If you earned more aid than was disbursed to you, the institution would owe you a post-withdrawal disbursement which must be paid within 120 days of your withdrawal.

Refunds are allocated in the following order: • Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan • Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan • Federal Parent (PLUS) Loan • Federal Pell Grant • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant If there is a Pell Grant overpayment and you do not repay the funds within 45 days, the account will be turned over to the Department of Education as an overpayment of federal funds. Students who owe an overpayment of Title IV grant funds are ineligible for further disbursements from the federal financial aid programs (grants and loans) at any institution until the overpayment is paid in full or payment arrangements are made with the Department of Education.

If you do not pay funds due to the College to cover a tuition and fees balance that resulted from the college returning unearned federal funds, a hold will be placed on your account. This means that you will not be permitted to register for classes or receive transcripts until your balance is paid in full. Continued non-payment of fees owed to the College could result in your account being turned over to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office for collection.

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––––––––––– Standards of Academic Progress (SAP) At Stark State College, we care about your success! That’s why it’s important for you to understand and meet the requirements of Standards of Academic Progress (SAP). This series of standards required to maintain eligibility for federal student aid includes requirements pertaining to completion of credit hours, grade point average (GPA) and maximum time frame as defined below.

If you do not meet these requirements you will be disqualified from future financial aid.

SAP requirements Stark State College requires that any student who applies for or receives federal financial aid make satisfactory academic progress toward an Ohio Board of Regents (OBR)-approved degree or certificate.

Satisfactory academic progress is measured as • Overall grade point average of 2.0.

• Successful completion of 67% of the cumulative attempted credit hours, including hours of repeated coursework. Attempted hours are determined by the number of credit hours you are registered for at the end of the sixth day of the semester.

• Completion of an OBR-approved degree or certificate within the number of required credit hours listed in the College catalog for the associate or certificate degree, multiplied by 150% (as determined by the Financial Aid Office), including accepted transfer credit hours and up to 30 attempted credit hours of required developmental coursework.

Successful grade completions are A, B, C, UC, D, UD, CR Unsuccessful grade completions are F, W, IN, NC, NA If you repeat a course, both grades will appear on your academic record, and the highest grade will be used in calculating the grade point average. Credit hours added after the sixth day of the term will be included in the SAP calculation, even if financial aid is not used to pay the tuition and fees associated with those hours.

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Monitoring progress At the end of each term attended, your academic progress will be evaluated, based upon the standards listed on page 16. If you fail to meet any of the above requirements, you will receive a notification letter from the College.

After the first term in which the requirements are not met, you will be placed on financial aid warning for one subsequent term. During the warning period, you will continue to be eligible for federal financial aid. The College encourages you to meet with an academic advisor to receive assistance with your educational goals.   After the second term in which the requirements are not met, you will become ineligible for federal financial aid. In order to regain federal financial aid eligibility, you will be required to pay for your classes out-of-pocket until you are able to reach the 67% completion rate and a cumulative 2.0 GPA. Appeal process If you have unusual or mitigating circumstances, you may submit an appeal requesting to continue to receive federal financial aid. Mitigating circumstances must be documented and approved by the Standards of Academic Progress Appeal Committee, made up of a financial aid representative, academic affairs representative, and student services representative. The appeal must be submitted by the last day to register in the term in which you are applying for continued federal financial aid. You may only submit two appeals during your time at Stark State College. Rare exceptions will be made to this policy.

If federal financial aid is reinstated as a result of the appeals process, you are placed on probation for one term. During the probationary period, you must successfully complete all registered courses and achieve a 2.0 grade point average.

After one semester of meeting the probation requirements, you will be placed on an academic plan and must continue to successfully complete all registered courses and maintain a term 2.0 GPA. As long as you are meeting the requirements of the academic plan, you will continue to receive aid. Once you are at a 67% completion rate for all attempted courses and a 2.0 grade point average, you will go back to good standing.

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Appeal procedure o Step 1 You must complete the SAP appeal form and submit it to the Financial Aid Office along with an explanation and documentation of the reasons for failing to comply with the stated academic standards. The explanation must include what improvements you have made that will ensure future academic success. o Step 2 The Standards of Academic Progress Appeal Committee will review the appeal and render a decision. o Step 3 You will receive the written decision of the Committee within 10 business days of the committee meeting. The decision of the Standards of Academic Progress Appeal Committee is FINAL. The Committee reserves the right to establish parameters as part of the approval process, including but not limited to restrictions of credit hours or specific courses, mandatory advising or adherence to an academic plan.

If you are approved for financial aid, you are encouraged to seek an academic advisor to review an academic plan.

––––––––––– Student rights/responsibilities/information You have the right to • know how your financial need is determined, including the cost of attendance, and how your family contribution is determined.

• know how and when you will receive student assistance.

• request an explanation of the type and amount of financial assistance you are receiving.

• if you have a loan – know the type, the interest rate, amount to be repaid, when you must begin repayment and other cancellation and deferment provisions.

• if you are offered a Federal Work-Study job – know the kind of job, what hours you must work, what your duties will be and how and when you will be paid.

• discuss your financial aid package with a representative of the Financial Aid Office.

• know how the College determines if you are making satisfactory progress and what happens if you are not.

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You are required to • report any scholarship, fee waiver, loan, grant, employment earnings or other financial benefits which you receive from any source other than Stark State College. Such benefits, if not already taken into consideration, may result in a revision or cancellation of other financial aid benefits.

• provide all documentation requested by the Financial Aid Office or other agencies.

• read and understand all forms that you are asked to sign and maintain copies of them.

• know and comply with all deadlines for application and re-application for financial aid.

• complete the FAFSA correctly, and submit it two to three months prior to the semester you plan to attend.

• follow up on any corrections or adjustments as requested.

• accept responsibility for all loan promissory notes and other agreements that you sign.

• understand loan obligations and make repayment as required.

• notify your lender(s) of any changes in your name, address or enrollment status. If you drop below half-time status, complete and submit exit loan information.

• perform in a satisfactory manner work agreed upon for Federal Work Study jobs.

• know and comply with the school’s refund procedure available on the College website.

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––––––––––– Tax credits and deductions For the 2014 tax year, two tax credits are available to help you offset the costs of higher education. You may be eligible to claim an education credit if you, your spouse, or a dependent you claim on your tax return was a student enrolled at or attending an eligible educational institution. The credits are based on the amount of qualified education expenses paid for the student in 2014 for academic periods beginning in 2014 and in the first three months of 2015.

Lifetime Learning Tax Credit The Lifetime Learning tax credit is a non-refundable federal income tax credit of up to $2,000 (20% of the first $10,000) for qualified tuition and related expenses.

The amount of your lifetime learning credit for 2014 is gradually reduced if your modified adjusted gross income is between $52,000 and $62,000 ($104,000 and $124,000 if you file a joint return).

American Opportunity Credit The American Opportunity Credit is a partially refundable credit up to $2,500 (100% of the first $2,000 and 25% of the next $2,000) for qualified expenses paid for each eligible student. This credit is only available to students who are in the first four years of post-secondary education. The amount of your American Opportunity Credit for 2014 is gradually reduced if your modified adjusted gross income is between $80,000 and $90,000 ($160,000 and $180,000 if filing a joint return).

In addition to the two tax credits, two deductions may be available to you.

Student Loan Interest Deduction Students can deduct up to $2,500 of student loan interest paid in 2014 on any federal or private educational loans on your federal tax return. The loans must have been used to fund half-time or greater attendance. You may qualify for this deduction if your modified adjusted gross income is less than $80,000 ($160,000 if you file a joint return).

Tuition and Fees Tax Deduction You can reduce your taxable income by as much as $4,000 and may benefit from this deduction if you are not eligible for any of the education tax credits. If your modified adjusted gross income is less than $80,000 ($160,000 if you file a joint return) you may be eligible for a $2,000 deduction. If your modified adjusted gross income is less than $65,000 ($130,000 if you file a joint return) you could be eligible for the maximum $4,000 deduction. The amount of the tuition and fees deduction you are eligible for depends on the amount of qualified tuition and related expenses you paid.

NOTE: These summaries, current at press time, are meant to give a general overview of these educational tax initiatives. Consult a tax advisor or IRS Publication 970 regarding the specifics of your personal situation.

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––––––––––– Frequently asked questions What is financial aid?

Financial aid is money provided by various agencies (federal, state and local governments, colleges or universities, community organizations and private corporations or individuals) to assist students in meeting the cost of attending college. It includes gift aid (grants and scholarships) and self-help aid (loans, which must be repaid, and student employment).

How is my eligibility determined?

When you file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you are considered for all federal, state and institutional aid administered by the Financial Aid Office. One or more types of aid are awarded to make up the financial aid package.

Do I need to be a full-time student to receive financial aid?

No! The amount of financial aid awarded is determined, in part, by the number of credit hours in which you are enrolled, but you do not have to be full time (12 credit hours) to receive financial aid. You must be enrolled in six or more credit hours to receive a student loan. The loan amount that you borrow could be affected by attending less than full-time enrollment. If you are eligible for grant funds, your award will be adjusted based on your level of enrollment.

What is the Expected Family Contribution?

Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is the amount of money your family is expected to contribute toward educational expenses from resources other than financial aid and is based on ability to pay. The EFC is calculated using the information provided on the FAFSA. Factors used to determine a family’s contributions include the previous year’s adjusted gross income, assets, size of family and the number of individuals in the family attending college.

How is financial need determined?

Financial need is determined by the difference in the cost of attendance (COA) and the expected family contribution (the family’s ability to pay for college costs).

How do I get my books?

If you have authorized (via your Title IV Authorization Form) your financial aid for use other than tuition, you may be eligible to charge your books to your account using your excess financial aid. The charges will then be applied to your tuition account. The system is updated on a nightly basis as aid is processed and book charges are assessed. To see if you may be eligible to charge your books to your account, check your account via mystarkstate. If a credit appears on your account, you may be able to charge your books.

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I receive no help from my parents and live on my own. Does that qualify me as an independent student?

Not necessarily. For the 2015-2016 school year, in order to be considered an independent student for purposes of financial aid, you must be able to answer yes to at least one of the following statements: • For the 2015-16 school year, the student was born before January 1, 1992; or • the student is married; or • the student has a child or children who receive more than half their support from the student; or • the student has dependents (other than a child or spouse) who receive more than half their support from the student, and who also live with the student; or • the student is enrolled as a graduate or professional student (pursuing a master’s degree or doctoral degree); or • the student is a qualified veteran of the U.S. military, or currently serving on active duty in the U.S. armed forces for purposes other than training; or • the student is an orphan (both parents deceased) or ward of the court or in foster care at any time after turning age 13*; or • the student is/was in legal guardianship*; or • the student is/was an emancipated minor*; or • the student was an unaccompanied youth who was homeless or at risk of being homeless on or after July 1, 2014*; or If you cannot answer “yes” to any of these statements and you feel there are circumstances that warrant you an independent student, call or stop by the Financial Aid Office to set up an appointment so we can review your situation. *You may be required to provide documentation to the Financial Aid Office.

What is verification?

The Department of Education selects some FAFSA applicants for a process called verification. If you are selected, you will be asked to submit a worksheet(s) and/or an IRS Tax Return Transcript. Spouse or parents’ information and other documents may also be requested. Verification must be completed before aid eligibility can be confirmed.

I have a bachelor’s degree. May I still apply for financial aid?

Students with bachelor’s degrees may still apply for the Federal Work-Study Program, Federal Direct Subsidized Loan and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan.

These students are not eligible for the Federal Pell or FSEOG grants.

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I am divorced/separated. What should I include on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?

Students who are divorced or legally separated should not include their ex-spouse’s income on the FAFSA. For more information on detailed or complicated questions, contact a Stark State College financial aid representative.

I was recently married. Do I have to include my spouse’s income on the FAFSA? Yes. You should include your spouse’s information on the FAFSA if you are married at the time the application is completed. If separate federal income tax returns were filed, combine the adjusted gross incomes from the tax returns and include them on the appropriate line of the FAFSA. Do the same for the amount of taxes paid and other amounts.

What if I lost my job or have other special circumstances?

The Financial Aid Office can take into account special circumstances which may affect your need. These may include loss of income due to layoff, disability, divorce, separation or loss of untaxed benefits. You can obtain a special conditions form from the Financial Aid Office and make an appointment with a financial aid counselor. NOTE: Not all requests for special conditions are approved.

Can I get financial aid for the summer semester?

Yes. You need to complete the FAFSA by March 1 of each year in order to have your aid ready for the summer. After you register for summer courses, your financial aid will automatically be repackaged to include funds for summer session.

What is Standards of Academic Progress (SAP)?

Standards of Academic Progress is a federal policy that the school is required to enforce to ensure that you are making progress toward your degree. Refer to the Standards of Academic Progress for Stark State College outlined in this booklet or visit www.starkstate.edu/sap.

What if I need to change my address?

If your address changes, you need to immediately notify the Academic Records/ Registrar’s Office. This will update all College addresses. You can update your address via the mystarkstate portal or by submitting the change of address form available in the Office of Academic Records/Registrar’s Office.

Do I have to apply for financial aid every year?

Yes. When you file your taxes, you need to begin the FAFSA process for the new year.

How can I check the status of my financial aid?

Students are welcome to call the Financial Aid Office at 330-494-6170. Student requirements, financial aid status, and award can be viewed through mystarkstate by checking under My Stuff>> Financial Aid & Registration Tools.

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What if I receive more financial aid than the cost of my tuition?

If you have excess money after tuition and fees are paid, you can be issued a refund. Please keep in mind that all students approved for Federal Direct Loans will have their loan funds paid out in two equal disbursements during each semester. If the first disbursement of your loan funds (combined with other applicable financial aid or out-of-pocket payments) is not enough to cover the full balance of your student account, you will not be issued a refund at that time.

How your individual credit balance will be handled is based on the selections you make when filing your Title IV Authorization Form. If you are eligible for a refund, you will want to activate the Stark State Plus Card to select your refund preference– www.starkstate.edu/pluscard. This card will be mailed to you approximately 14 days after you initially register for classes.

What will happen to my financial aid if I drop a class or just stop attending?

Attendance and academic performance are important! Withdrawing or ceasing attendance before the 60% point of the term will cause you to owe the College and/or the Department of Education money. Also, you will jeopardize your future eligibility for financial aid. PLEASE see the Financial Aid Office before any withdrawal so that you may be made aware of the potential impact of your decision.

How will the College contact me concerning my financial aid?

The Financial Aid Office will contact you through your Stark State email and provide you with access to mystarkstate. It is important that you check your student email account daily for updates: • New and transfer students will be contacted by postcard. After completing your first semester, new and transfer students will be contacted through your Stark State email.

––––––––––– Other information For information about Stark State College’s facilities, programs or eligibility requirements, go to www.starkstate.edu or call the Office of Admissions/Student Services.

Information about the College’s drug prevention program may be obtained in the Office of Admissions/Student Services.

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––––––––––– Directory Stark State College 6200 Frank Ave. N.W. North Canton, OH 44720 330-494-6170 www.starkstate.edu Academic Records/Registrar 330-494-6170, Ext. 4301 330-966-6598 (fax) 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

M - Th 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

F registration@starkstate.edu www.starkstate.edu/registration Room S308 Office of Admissions/Student Services 330-494-6170, Ext. 4228 1-800-797-8275 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

M - Th 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

F info@starkstate.edu www.starkstate.edu/admissions Room S305 Bookstore/College Store 330-966-5452 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

M - Th 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

F www.starkstate.edu/collegestore Room S105 Cashier’s Window 330-494-6170, Ext 4060/4404/4573 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

M - Th 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

F Room S300 Career Development Office 330-966-5459 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

M - Th 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

F www.starkstate.edu/careerdevelopment Room S100 Disability Support Services 330-494-6170, Ext. 4935 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

M - Th 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

F www.starkstate.edu/disability-supportservices-dss Room S307

Financial Aid Office 330-494-6170, Ext. 4301 330-966-6598 (fax) 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

M - Th 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

F financialaid@starkstate.edu www.starkstate.edu/finaid Room S308 Military Services 330-494-6170, Ext. 4254 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

M - Th 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

F www.starkstate.edu/militaryservices S308a Office of Multicultural Student Affairs 330-494-6170, Ext. 4667 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

M-F Room B230k Office of Student Life 330-494-6170, Ext. 4237 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

M-F Room S302a Federal student aid information For general federal student aid information 1-800-433-3243 www.studentaid.ed.gov Federal income tax information Internal Revenue Service Request a tax return transcript 1-800-908-9946 or 1-800-829-1040 www.irs.gov State grants and scholarships Ohio Board of Regents University System of Ohio 25 South Front Street Columbus, Ohio 43215 1-800-233-6734 or 614-466-6000 hotline@regents.state.oh.us www.ohiohighered.org/board www.ohiomeanssuccess.org/students/ pay-for-college/ohio-financial-aid

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Stark State College Stark State College | 6200 Frank Ave. NW | North Canton, OH 44720 330-494-6170 | 1-800-797-8275 | www.starkstate.edu

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